We will be first time visitors to Niagara Falls in late August, flying into Rochester,NY and driving to Niagara Falls.
From Rochester which route is recommended-drive along Lake Ontario, Hwy 104 or I-490/90?
In Niagara Falls, ON, can anyone tell me if there is a simple motel/hotel very near the Falls? Don't need a pool,etc. Any chance for under $100?
We will drive through the Finger Lakes area going back to Rochester. Any suggestion for points of interest would be appreciated.

Rte 104 will be a significantly longer drive than taking the Thruway (90). You will go through towns, stoplights, traffic. The Thruway should take about an hour and a half.

Can't help you with your other questions.

The Finger Lakes region has several wineries/vinyards that give tours. We found the Dr. Konstantin Frank vinyard to be particularly interesting. Terrific wine too.

We stayed in Youngstown, NY at the Fyfe & Drum in for about $90 a night. It was fifteen mintues drive to the falls and we loved Youngstown.

http://www.travelpod.com/travel-blog...ls06/tpod.html

Is there a reason that you're flying into Rochester rather than Buffalo? Buffalo is much closer to the Falls. Do you plan to spend a few days in the Finger Lakes, or are you just driving through? The Finger Lakes region is mostly east of Rochester and not on the way from Niagara Falls to Rochester. But it's worth a visit.

I don't know if Rte 104 is "scenic trail route" or not but we usually take the Thruway I-90 into the falls area. It's faster. If it's a "scenic trail route" you may want to take it but otherwise take the Thruway.
If you post this on the Canada thread you will get more info about hotels. I know there is a Quality Inn that is not too expensive. Stayed there once and it was fine. At that time we were just passing through and were not looking for luxury. You may want to check Days Inn as well. I believe there are moderate priced in the falls area.
The Cayuga / Seneca wine trail is a great trail and will lead you into either Watkins Glen or Ithaca depending on which route you take. This route drives between the 2 lakes and ofcourse has many wineries. Personally I would recommend driving to Watkins Glen. The Glen is awesome!
Hope this helps.
Annika